For all the media hype, you would think Viagra is the only way to counter male impotence. Before committing to an expensive prescription drug with plenty of side effects, men with this problem might want to try some natural Viagra alternatives, first.

At the top of the list, is Ginko Biloba, an herb that many already take as a memory booster that works by enhancing blood flow. Better yet, Ginko is relatively free of side effects and available from most pharmacies and big box stores such as Costco and Sam’s Club. A University of California study found that Ginko Biloba reversed sexual problems in 84% of men taking anti-depressant drugs, such as Prozac. The suggested dose is 80 mg three times a day.

Arginine is an amino acid that enhances blood flow. Tel Aviv University studied 50 men with impotence problems and found that 31% of them improved within six weeks of taking Arginine. The men who benefited also suffered from circulatory disorders that may have contributed to the problem. Men who are taking nitroglycerin should not take Arginine (or Viagra, for that matter) because the combination may cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Sold under the name L-Arginine, the recommended dose is 1 gram three times a day.

DHEA, a hormone that helps the body make estrogen and testosterone. A study by the University of Vienna found that men with low DHEA levels were helped by taking 5 mg each morning.

Yohimbe, an herb that may correct impotence. Yohimbe does have a side effect, though. It may cause blood pressure to rise to dangerously high levels, as well as anxiety and other side effects. Many doctors prefer the pure form of the herb, Yohimbe, which has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.